Missing Linfield College student found safe in Newport

Missing Linfield College senior Michelle Kawachi, who had not been seen or heard from by family members or close friends since April 17, was located Tuesday night in in Newport, according to McMinnville police. She has been reunited with her family.

"She apparently went to the coast to relax and think through some things and forgot her phone charger," Capt. Dennis Marks said. "She is OK and her family is very excited."

The Newport Police Department was a great partner in dilligently looking for and eventually locating Kawachi, a Linfield senior majoring in electronic arts.

"They put a lot of good effort into looking for her," Marks said. "They received word that she had spent some money in town. I believe she was located at a hotel."

Kawachi is from Hood River.When her family reported here missing, they said she enjoys visiting the Central Oregon Coast, Lincoln City to the south of Newport.

McMinnville police were contacted last Sunday by Linfield Campus Security and Kawachi's brother regarding her disappearance.

Linfield issued a statement saying it wanted to express its appreciation to McMinnville police, media, campus community and citizens for their efforts in locating Kawachi.

"Your care and concern demonstrates Linfield's strong sense of community, and we are proud of your efforts in helping with this positive outcome," the statement read.